This document discusses cloud-based file management services like Dropbox and SugarSync. It explains that these services allow users to store and share files online, as well as synchronize files across multiple devices. Some key benefits mentioned are reducing email overload, conveniently sharing large files, and syncing files for team collaboration. The document also notes legal and privacy considerations for using these services, such as not uploading illegal or private content and being aware files could be subpoenaed. It discusses ownership of files on the services and unlikely "what if" scenarios like a service going bankrupt. The conclusion advises never storing anything too sensitive on these accounts in case of a security compromise.

1. Cloud-based File Management Services: Dropbox & SugarSync
By: Adam Voyton
Teacher: Nora Hufe
Ethics for Computer Professionals
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More than just storing files:
Practical Uses of Cloud-based File Management Services
Reduces email overload - removes
the need to email yourself a file
over and over again just to have
the latest version
Convenient workaround for
receiving files – removes the
need to have someone burn
files to a CD which were to
large to send via email.

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Synchronize files across
multiple devices (PC,
Mac, or various mobile
devices)
What is a Cloud-based
File Management Service?
• Send any file, of any file size, to
anyone.
• Share folders to easily sync
information across teams.
Web service which allows users
to set up an account to store
files securely online

4. Service Provider Options
Dropbox
Create a free account at:
dropbox.com/register
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SugarSync
Sign up for an account at:
sugarsync.com/products/sync_pricing.html

5. Remember: the public link to a file is easily forwarded - You may
want to delete it from your account once you verify that your
recipient has downloaded the file.
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In short, having a Dropbox or SugarSync account can be
a HUGE convenience. However, there are some drawbacks.
If the file gets into
the wrong hands…
The file could be
easily distributed…
- That could be just as
bad as hitting reply all
to an email you meant
to privately send!

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Stating the Obvious: Legal Considerations
Do not upload files which:
• Violate the law in any way
• Violate the privacy of others
• Defame others
Compliance with Law Enforcement:
• These services cooperate with
government, law enforcement
officials, private parties to
enforce and comply with the law.
• Your account could
be subpoenaed!

7. Mine or yours? Who really owns files stored on Cloud Services?
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• Full ownership to user. Service provider
does not own your files and will delete
them off of their servers when you delete
them from your account.
• Most employees cannot even access your
files: only a select few can review your
account for legal compliance to a
subpoena.
• Service provider does not have to notify
the account holder if their account was
searched.

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The “What If” Considerations
1. What if they go bankrupt? Although unlikely, a service provider could go bankrupt
overnight and users would lose data.
* This scenario is unlikely. These service providers are highly popular.
2. What if they change their Terms of Service?
It’s also possible that your service provider change their
Terms of Service to make your files it inaccessible.
* Also unlikely - it’s like saying you can’t trust Google to
provide free gmail accounts.
**Reputation is everything to these companies,
so a move like this would ruin them.

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Never put anything on your account
that would be devastating if it was compromised
Banking passwords
Risqué photos Confidential Reports

10. Summation
References
 Dropbox vs SugarSync (Pros and Cons)
http://windows7themes.net/dropbox-vs-sugarsync-pros-and-cons.html
 See How SugarSync Stacks up to the Competition
https://www.sugarsync.com/sync_comparison.html
 The Dropbox Blog - Privacy, Security & Your Dropbox
http://blog.dropbox.com/?p=735
 Code Overtones on Dropbox
http://jyro.blogspot.com/2010/02/on-dropbox.html
 http://www.infosecurity.us/blog/2011/4/22/did-dropbox-lie.html
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